Halloween is all about spooky stories, scary surprises, and things that go bump in the night. But some of the wildest myths aren't just coming from haunted houses—they're showing up in campus conversations.

We asked ONE® College Ambassadors to spill the sex ed myths they've heard from their peers on campus, and let's just say… some of these deserve a fact check. From pregnancy myths that won't quit to wild rumors about condoms and STIs, we're separating the tricks from the facts so you can head into spooky season with the information you actually need.

TL;DR Key Takeaways:

• Our ONE® College Ambassadors shared spooky sex ed myths they’ve heard around campus, from pregnancy rumors to misconceptions about condoms, STIs, and lube.

• From pregnancy fears to pull-out method lore, we set the record straight on pre-cum, post-sex bathroom trips, and twin myths.

• Between “double bagging” condoms and DIY household hacks, we break down dangerous condom myths and explain why symptom-free STIs still require routine testing

• Plus discover why lube isn’t just for dryness; it can reduce friction, improve comfort, and enhance pleasure, even when natural lubrication is present.

Who are the ONE® College Ambassadors?

Wondering who shared these campus perspectives? They come straight from our ONE® College Ambassadors Program, one of several community programs at ONE® dedicated to supporting real conversations and grassroots outreach. Our ambassadors consist of peer educators, student organizations, passionate sex ed advocates, and Greek life who bring approachable, judgement-free sex ed to their campuses. Equipped with training, educational tools, and free safer sex supplies to support their existing efforts, they lead interactive events from condom fit demos and sex ed bingo to tabling and Grab ’N Go supply stations—making sexual health resources accessible, inclusive, and fun for their peers.

1. Pregnancy Myths That Are Scarily Persistent

Can you get pregnant on your period? Does peeing after sex prevent pregnancy? And what does withdrawal have to do with twins? Our ONE® College Ambassadors shared some memorable misconceptions about pregnancy and contraception they’ve heard from peers. Let’s break down the confessions they shared and separate the facts from fiction.

The campus confession: “If you get pregnant after using the pull out method you will get twins.”

The facts: The pull-out method (withdrawal) can reduce the chance of pregnancy, but it isn't 100% effective. Pregnancy can happen if sperm enters the vagina, including when withdrawal isn't timed correctly or sperm is present in pre-ejaculate. Getting pregnant after using the pull-out method does not mean you're more likely to have twins and withdrawal does not determine whether a pregnancy results in twins. To learn more, we recommend checking out Planned Parenthood's guide to the pull-out method and how it works.

Another misconception shared by our ambassadors was: “Probably that a person can not get pregnant if they pee after sex.”

The facts: Peeing after sex does not prevent pregnancy. Urine exits through the urethra, which is separate from the vagina, so urinating won't flush sperm out of the reproductive tract. If pregnancy prevention is the goal, use a reliable contraceptive method like external or internal condoms or another birth control method rather than relying on post-sex bathroom trips.

One more question worth answering: “Can you become pregnant with exposure to pre-cum?”

Yes, pregnancy is possible from pre-ejaculate, or pre-cum, because it may contain sperm. The withdrawal method is less reliable than many other contraceptive methods, so it's important to understand the risks and choose protection that works for you.

2. Condom Myths That Need to Be Put to Rest

Condoms have a lot of myths attached to them, from whether they affect sensation to whether they actually work. Our ambassadors had heard plenty of these claims on campus.

The campus confession: “You can use anything in place of a condom, like a plastic bag.”

The facts: Please don't DIY your safer sex supplies! Household items aren't designed or tested to prevent pregnancy or reduce STI transmission. Fun fact: condoms are Class II medical devices that undergo testing to help ensure they meet safety and performance standards for pregnancy and STI prevention. Always use the correct type of condom designed for sexual activity, and check the package for instructions and expiration dates. Want to learn more about how condoms are made and tested? Watch this video to see the process!

Another myth we heard: “Using multiple condoms is more effective.”

The facts: Wearing two external condoms at once can create extra friction and increase the chance of breakage. Condoms are for single use, and using only one is always the safest choice. For example, if you or your partner is using an external (male) condom, don't pair it with an internal (female) condom like the FC2—using them together creates friction that can cause both to tear or slip off.

And what about sensation? One ambassador shared: “I always heard people say condoms ‘take away the feeling,’ and I wondered if that was actually true.”

Condoms don't have to mean less pleasure. In fact, the right one can enhance it. When people feel a loss of sensation, it’s usually down to using the wrong size, missing out on lube, or sticking with thick, standard materials. With the right fit, style, and compatible lube, safer sex can feel just as intimate, comfortable, and exciting while reducing the risk of unintended pregnancy and STIs.

Not all condoms feel the same! ONE® Condoms are made with Sensatex® softer latex, designed to move with your body for a more natural feeling. Whether you prefer a classic style or want to experiment with different textures, exploring your options can help you discover what feels best for you.

Looking for something with a little extra sensation? ONE® Tattoo Touch® features tattoo-inspired raised patterns, while ONE® Super Studs™ features raised studs designed to add extra stimulation. For a modern, skin-on-skin feel, ONE® Flex® infuses ultra-soft vegan latex with graphene combining thinness, flexibility, and 85% better body heat transfer than standard latex without sacrificing protection. Trying different styles can be a fun way to explore what you and your partner enjoy.

Comfort and sensation can also depend on how well a condom fits. A condom that’s too tight may feel uncomfortable, while one that’s too loose may slip. That’s why ONE® offers MyONE® Custom Fit®, with 52 sizes across 10 lengths and 9 widths, helping you find a fit that feels comfortable and secure. 

Not sure where to start? Take the Find Your Fit Quiz to explore your options and find a condom style that matches your preferences. Because safer sex can feel good, too!

3. STI Myths Straight Out of a Horror Movie

If one myth deserves a spot in the Halloween hall of fame, it's this one. The campus confession: “You can get an STI from a toilet seat.”

The facts: Most STIs spread through specific forms of sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex, or direct genital skin-to-skin contact, depending on the infection. Ordinary toilet seat contact isn't a typical route of STI transmission. It's important to share accurate, evidence-based information and help people separate myths from facts. For more information, see the CDC’s About Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Another myth we heard: “STIs can’t be asymptomatic.”

The facts: Many STIs show zero symptoms. Someone can feel completely fine and still carry or pass on an infection, which is why routine testing matters even when everything looks and feels normal. You can’t guess someone’s status just by looking at them; the only way to know for sure is to get tested. Drop by your campus health center, visit your primary care provider, or check out local community organizations for free or low-cost testing options.

4. The Lube Myth That Just Won't Quit

Let's talk about lube because comfort deserves a place in every safer sex conversation.

The campus confession: “I'm sick of hearing ‘I don't need lube’ referring to how wet they naturally are.”

Natural lubrication varies from person to person and moment to moment depending on hydration, stress, hormones, and arousal. Even when someone is naturally lubricated, lube isn't just a fix for dryness; it's an upgrade. It cuts down on friction, prevents condom tears, and elevates pleasure. There is no rule saying you have to wait until sex feels uncomfortable before reaching for a bottle.

The best part? Lube isn't one-size-fits-all. ONE® offers four distinct formulas designed to match your preferences, your body, and whatever kind of play you're into:

• Water-Based Essentials (Toy & Condom Safe, Easy Cleanup):

• ONE® Oasis®: The classic, lightweight water-based formula. It's gentle, hydrating, mess-free, and washes away effortlessly with just water.
  

• ONE® True®: A pH-friendly, water-based blend crafted with 99% naturally derived ingredients, including soothing aloe.
  

• Long-Lasting & Hybrid Options (Maximum Glide):

• ONE® Move®: A pure silicone lubricant that delivers a silky-smooth glide that won’t dry out or absorb quickly. It’s ideal for longer sessions, anal play, or shower sex. (Just remember: don't pair silicone lubes with silicone toys, as they can degrade the toy's surface).
  

• ONE® Oasis Silk®: The best of both worlds. This hybrid formula blends water-based ease with a touch of silicone, offering effortless cleanup alongside long-lasting glide and extra moisturizing comfort.

Whether you prefer a lightweight classic, naturally derived aloe, long-lasting silicone glide, or a hybrid blend, the right lube makes every experience smoother and more comfortable. Whichever formula you choose, all ONE® lubricants are non-GMO, vegan-verified, condom-compatible, and dermatologist-tested. Explore the full lineup of ONE® lubricants here. 

Don't Let Misinformation Haunt Your Sex Life

The biggest takeaway from our ambassadors' campus confessions? Asking questions is a good thing. Sexual health myths can stick around when people feel embarrassed to ask, don't know where to find reliable information, or simply hear the same misinformation repeated by friends.

This Halloween, don't let a scary story become your source of sexual health advice. Get curious, check the facts, and make choices that feel right for you!

Want to keep learning? Explore ONE®'s sexual health resources, find condoms and lube that work for you, and keep the conversation going with your friends and partners.

Because the only thing scarier than a Halloween costume is making decisions based on a myth.

Ready to get involved? Join the ONE® Community.

• ONE® on Stage: ONE® works with over 250 bands and musical artists across North America. They receive free condom cases with their band logo, and then distribute those at concerts and shows. Ready to rock out? Learn more about ONE® on stage.

• Team ONE®: Are you in an intramural, campus, or other social sports club? Let ONE® be your ultimate assist. Teams receive ONE® Condom cases with their logo that they can hand out at events. Learn more on our website.
  

• ONE® Project Condom: Host a condom fashion show featuring garments and accessories crafted entirely from condoms. Spark meaningful conversations in your community, raise awareness about a cause close to your heart, and promote condom education. Learn more about Project Condom or host your own condom fashion show in your community!

• Art of ONE®: ONE® is known for its cheeky, round condom wrapper designs featuring art from designers from around the world. Are you the next Rembrandt of Rubber? Submit a condom wrapper design, such as a digital design, a photo of your pet, a painting, etc. Submissions are accepted on a rolling basis. If your design is selected, you’ll receive payment and free condoms featuring your design. Interested in submitting your portfolio instead? We’re always looking to build our network of freelance creatives to work with from design to photography and more.

• ONE® Momentum®: You’re halfway there! Join the loyalty program! People complete challenges for points, and then can use their points to redeem free condoms, lube and swag on the ONE website. Sign up here to earn your rewards.